Press Room

New Poll: Americans Want Inclusive Play Options at Playgrounds Nationwide

(March 5, 2018)

NRPA is committed to helping park and rec agencies provide inclusive play options

Ashburn, Va. (Mar. 5, 2018) — According to a recent poll conducted by the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA), nearly 9 in 10 Americans say communities should offer all-inclusive play options at playgrounds across the country. This includes playground equipment that is suitable for children of all physical and cognitive abilities.

Most Americans are emphatic in their support for inclusive play. Seventy-percent of Americans say having play options for children of all abilities is extremely or very important. This is a sentiment shared by people of all ages — especially parents. More than 90 percent of parents believe communities should provide playground equipment that accommodates a wide range of abilities.

“NRPA is committed to ensuring all people have access to the benefits of parks and recreation,” said Barbara Tulipane, NRPA president and CEO. “Our Parks for Inclusion initiative is aimed at helping our member agencies develop programs and facilities that are inclusive to all people.”

A recent report published by NRPA demonstrates the commitment of park and recreation agencies nationwide in providing quality programs, facilities, places and spaces that are inclusive to all people. The survey found that 74 percent of agencies offer programs and activities for individuals with physical disabilities. Furthermore, 62 percent of agencies offer programs and activities for individuals with cognitive disabilities. A copy of the report is available here.

This poll is part of NRPA’s Park Pulse, a continuing series of monthly surveys that gauge the public’s opinion on topics relating to parks and recreation. To explore previous Park Pulse survey results, visit www.nrpa.org/Park-Pulse.

About the National Recreation and Park Association The National Recreation and Park Association is a national not-for-profit organization dedicated to ensuring that all Americans have access to parks and recreation for health, conservation and social equity. Through its network of 60,000 recreation and park professionals and advocates, NRPA encourages the promotion of healthy and active lifestyles, conservation initiatives and equitable access to parks and public space. For more information, visit www.nrpa.org. For digital access to NRPA’s flagship publication, Parks & Recreation, visit www.parksandrecreation.org.